R v Chang-Time (CO 74/2015) [2016] SCSC 399 (10 June 2016);

Heard:
Counsel: Mr Thachett, Assistant Principal State Counsel for the Republic
Mr Gabriel for the accused

Delivered: 10 June 2016

SENTENCE

Dodin J

[1] The Convict is 53 years old, he has four children all of age. He has pleaded guilty to the second alternative count and to third count both possession which do not carry any mandatory minimum sentences.
[2] By pleading guilty he has saved the Court’s time and expenses. Learned Counsel moved the Court to show leniency and not to impose a sentence of imprisonment on the Convict. The Convict is also a first offender and for purposes of this case he will be treated as a first offender.
[3] I have therefore taken all these mitigating factors into consideration and I would impose the following sentences on the Convict.
[4] On the 2nd count possession of 82.5 grams I sentence him to time served, that is the time he has spent on remand shall be his sentence and in addition I impose a fine of SR10,000.
[5] On the 3rd count that is, possession of 0.23 grams I impose a fine of SR3000. I further order that the amount of money SR4800 seized from the Convict be forfeited to the Republic.
[6] I make a further order that the amount of SR35,100 taken from the wardrobe be returned to Una Chang-Time the wife of the Convict.
[7] The Convict has 6 months to complete payment of the fines, he can do so by instalments. If he defaults after 6 months then I will call the case and a default sentence of imprisonment may be imposed.
[8] He can appeal against the sentence within 30 working days.